5 Killer Nismo Creations

Nismo is set to bring new life and power to models such as the Juke and GT-R.

Nissan recently announced that it would be putting a greater focus on its Nismo division. The company's in-house performance arm is going to be adding some extra power and style to models such as the Leaf, Juke and GT-R. Power for all engines will be increased by 15 percent, and each car will get a sportier suspension and a complete interior and exterior makeover. If you're still not excited about all of the new tuned Nissans due out next year, then you need to keep reading below to see some of Nismo's latest and greatest creations.

The GT-R RS is still a ways away, but you can get your hands on the GT-3-spec GT-R Nismo right now. The tuned GT-R's engine produces 523hp, which is less than a production GT-R. To offset the loss in power, the GT-R has been stripped of its interior (a roll cage was added) and given an aerodynamic body kit. This GT-3-spec GT-R Nismo sells for $390,000. Hopefully the GT-R Nismo goes for a lot less.

When Nissan announced the expansion of its Nismo line they also mentioned the possibility of creating RS GT-Rs and 370Zs. The 370Z seen here is a Nismo RC (Racing Competition) model, so it's not technically an RS. Still, it could be an indicator of things to come. The 2011 370Z Nismo RC has a racing clutch, flywheel and transmission. The interior has been stripped and the 3.7-liter V6 engine has been tuned to produce 355hp and 276lb-ft of torque. Pricing for the 370Z Nismo RC is set at $164,560 for a race-ready model.

The existence of the Nismo Micra shows that Nissan's tuning division will take its talents to any and all models. The modifications include a new body kit and a sporty interior highlighted by a sports steering wheel and racing seats.

Chances are that the Nismo Leaf won't look anything like the Nismo Leaf RC pictured here, but the two may end up having similar power numbers. The Leaf Nismo RC can do 0 to 60 in 6.85 seconds and hit a top speed of 93 mph. The Nismo Leaf RC is 40 percent lighter than a production Leaf, but its engine is smaller than the one planned for the Nismo Leaf (107hp to 125hp).

The GT-R Nismo may get all the press when it's launched, but it's the Juke Nismo that will likely sell the best. The Juke Nismo sits on 18-inch alloy wheels and has an aerodynamic exterior featuring a new front and rear bumper, side skirts, a new grille and a new grille. The interior features racing bucket seats covered in suede with red stitching.